Coconut Pineapple Smoothie Bowl

Post yoga bliss has met its match with this coconut pineapple
smoothie bowl. Hot temperatures, cool smoothie- a match made in flavor
heaven. This smoothie bowl will not only transport you to a tropical
island with the flavors, but nourish your muscles with the necessary
vitamins and minerals.

Food is fuel not only for your stomach but for your muscles. Coconut
milk is nutrient rich in fiber, vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5 and B6 and
minerals including iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and
phosphorous. Pineapple is one of the highest vitamin C sources, which
is great for fighting colds and for eye health. It's high in fiber
but unlike many other fruits and veggies, pineapple contains
significant amounts of bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down protein,
possibly helping digestion, according to the American Cancer Society.
Also known for its anti-inflammatory properties - great for post
workout muscles. Chia is naturally gluten free and non-GMO. It's a
whole grain food that is an excellent source of Omega 3's - perfect
for a plant-based diet. And last, yet not least, bananas are packed
with potassium and magnesium but is a great source of B6 & B12.
Let food heal and restore you!

I'll also note that my kids loved this smoothie flavor and topped it
with fresh mango slices adding to the tropical flavor profile. Frozen
pineapple also works in this recipe in a pinch if you don't have fresh
pineapple hanging around. Without any further delay, let's get to the how-to!

First, you want to slice your pineapple in half with a very sharp
knife being extremely cautious. Once sliced in half, I took a smaller
knife and removed the hard inner core of the pineapple and discarded.
I then sliced around the pineapple to make a bowl, leaving a good
supportive edge and removed the fruit with a spoon to use in my
smoothie (see photo below).

Working with one half of the pineapple, I added the fruit removed
with a spoon to my Vitamix (or any high powered blender). Then add
the coconut milk, frozen bananas and ice. Blend on the smoothie
setting until blended and creamy. Pour that into your halved pineapple
and add your desired toppings. I did opt to slice up the other half of
the pineapple to use for topping and for eating. Sit back, grab a
straw & enjoy!